Featured Artist

"I've always admired the beauty of nature and this theme is always in mind when I am painting. Nature has become my main source of inspiration."

"When I was a child, I wasn't good at school. Every day after classes, I had to help my parents selling clothes at the market until I went to college. At that time, I didn't know what I wanted to study. I don't know why I decided to major in art because I was so bad at it.

"I'm Chirawat Kokiatarpa, but my friends call me Golf. My parents are clothing merchants. One day, I met Mr. Sangka Choomtam, who lived near our house. He is a very good artist who paints in watercolor and oils. For a year, he taught me and that really changed my point of view about art. I have learned so much from him. I eventually received a BA in fine art from Chiang Mai University.

"I've always admired the beauty of nature and this theme is always in mind when I am painting. Nature has become my main source of inspiration.

"I'm straightforward person but my emotions change easily. I love to learn new things, especially new styles of painting. I am easygoing and lead a simple lifestyle.

"Today, I am an artist. I rent a house, stay with my girlfriend and work at home. I also craft custom frames. I sell my paintings in the street market and am always happy when someone buys my work.

"In 2005, my work appeared in my thesis exhibit, and I also won a gold prize in watercolor painting that same year. These experiences have given me more confidence and happiness."

Current Promotions

Your support makes a real difference to the lives of artisans.

Ernestina Asante

West Africa

Although carving has long been regarded as the preserve of men, Ernestina has been able to make her own mark on the industry, carving her own masks and djembe drums.

Through her sales with NOVICA, Ernestina has grown as an entrepreneur, expanding her business and taking on apprentices. She even persuaded her husband who was a taxi driver to quit his job and join NOVICA as a carver.